Mohs Surgery Aftercare

Patients with skin cancer who have been educated on Mohs micrographic surgery may have many questions about this specialized procedure. At Florida Academic Dermatology Center, Coral Gables, FL area patients can schedule a consultation with Dr. Francisco Kerdel and his team to determine if they are a good candidate for this or other surgeries available for skin cancer.

What is Mohs micrographic surgery?

Dr. Francisco Kerdel describes Mohs as a unique and specialized procedure used for recurring cancers or cancers present on highly visible areas of the face and body. This procedure removes skin layer by layer to be as conservative as possible in maintaining healthy surrounding skin, while removing all layers of skin affected by cancerous cells. The procedure often results in less excision of healthy skin and less scarring to the treated area.

What should I do following my procedure to ensure proper healing and recovery?

The team at Florida Academic Dermatology Center will educate patients on what to expect before, during, and after their Mohs micrographic surgery. Aftercare is important in ensuring the area heals properly, scarring is reduced, and the risk of infection is eliminated. Below are a few tips and recommendations to follow when healing following Mohs micrographic surgery:

• Do not remove scabbing that naturally develops. Scabs are the skin’s way of healing properly following trauma to the surface. It is important that patients avoid messing with stitches, sutures, or scabs to allow the wound to heal on its own. Complete healing can take up to six weeks.
• Watch for any signs of infection. If the area is not healing as the doctor has described, it may be a good time to schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr. Francisco Kerdel to evaluate the area for a possible infection.
• Expect localized bruising and swelling. This is completely normal and may be at its worse a few days after surgery instead of immediately after. It will improve over the course of a week on its own.
• Change dressings as recommended. Minor bleeding or seepage is normal on the original dressings. Active bleeding is a concern, and if it continues with proper care, it may be time to revisit the practice to evaluate and address.

Request a visit today

If you are undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery, or are contemplating it, the team of Florida Academic Dermatology Center of Coral Gables, FL encourages you to schedule a visit with Dr. Francisco Kerdel and his team. The practice is located at 475 Biltmore Way, Ste. #207 and can be reached at (305) 324-2110.